posted by: Jonathan Shaw
90-90-90 is a Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) strategy. Its aim is to control the HIV/AIDS epidemic by 2020.
90-90-90 refers to achieving a target of:
Successful treatment with HIV medications (antiretrovirals) brings the viral load down to an undetectable level.
Fantastic news for people living with HIV (PLHIV). When PLHIV have been undetectable for 6 months or longer and remain on treatment, they are not at risk of transmitting HIV to sexual partners. This has also been phrased as U= U, which stands for undetectable = untransmittable (or uninfectious). This has been confirmed by multiple research studies in recent years.
This is very empowering information for any PLHIV. We asked ‘what does being undetectable mean to you?’ to some of our patients:
‘I feel that I am the focus of the appointment with my clinician and not just my medication or viral load (blood test result) ’
‘I am able to confidently pursue relationships and explain why I am on treatment to any potential partner’
‘Being on treatment has saved my life, and the pharmacist is that helping hand, assisting me to continue taking my medications daily.’
Let people know, and be confident when saying it. Despite such remarkable improvements in treatment response, drug options, and the dedicated support offered through many clinics, some people are being left behind or ‘falling through the cracks’ and not aware that HIV treatment is available.
Many are out there. Recently we have talked in the service about the distinction between ‘illness and disease’. Disease is what clinicians diagnose and treat, whereas illness is the subjective experience of the clinician’s diagnosis. This distinction is important, particularly in the context of HIV, as it highlights the fact that experiences of people sharing the same medical condition can vary considerably.
Some of these variations can be attributed to how accessible a clinic is to a patient. We think about the level of relational support available to people. We consider factors such as immigration status, religious background and financial support. So being there to talk to and holistically support PLHIV is as important as any message around effective treatment.
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In response to the emergence of COVID-19 we have implemented a telephone triage system for all of our clinics. Our central telephone number is 0300 303 3989.
We are currently experiencing high demand for our Sexual Health Services across Devon and Torbay with unprecedented demand in Exeter. Please note always review urgent cases the same day. If your need is urgent and you are struggling to reach us keep trying as our phone system will explain how to access same-day care with us.
We have updated information on the provision of routine contraception here.
Self-requested STI testing by post is available for those aged under 25- more info
We are now running an under 18’s sit and wait clinic at Exeter, Torquay, and Barnstaple for more information click here
If you are struggling to access sexual health services, alternatives may be available: